Show Solutions, LLC is an information systems company designed specifically for the alpaca show community. This computer system provides the class line-up of the show in progress on plasma screens positioned at ringside and at various locations throughout the venue. The plasma screens provide up-to-the-minute detail on three classes: the current class in the ring and the next two classes on deck. This feature facilitates the orderly line-up of show participants and their alpacas. Having this information available to exhibitors virtually eliminates the problem of missing a class.

The second feature of the plasma screens is paid advertising space containing still photography or streaming video that allows farms to promote events, alpaca sales and various other services. Exhibitors can be in the show ring with an alpaca and at the same time be marketing their farm on the plasma screen.

Show Solutions, LLC completed its first full year in operation by providing service at a staggering total of fifteen shows. The 2006 show schedule covered alpaca shows as far South as Florida, as far West as Illinois and as far East and North as Vermont and Maine. Show Solutions’ system was present in Kentucky, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Ohio.

Feedback regarding the effectiveness of the system has been very positive. As in any business, there is a need for continuous improvement. Upgrading the computer system’s capability is a continual process. The information displayed on the plasma screens is provided to Show Solutions by the show superintendents and is presented as accurately and as spontaneously as possible. Show Solutions plans to implement a feature of updating the show book to reflect any class changes. This will be accomplished by linking directly to the show superintendent’s computer. Exhibitors will be able to verify the correctness of their halter show class entry by inquiry to the computer. In 2006 the system was converted to totally wireless capability. In addition, a wireless connection can be sent within the show venue to allow attendees with a wireless connection to display the class line-ups on monitors without leaving their booth/pens. These features will be available at future events; hopefully problems with weak signals and interference can be minimized.

Plans for Show Solutions in 2007 are already underway. As alpaca shows grow in size there is a need for additional monitors. As “alpaca shows go hi-tech” Show Solutions will broadcast the system on the World Wide Web. Shows held at venues having internet access will enable Show Solutions to broadcast the information on the internet; this facilitates adding plasma screens at convenient locations in ALL show buildings. Long term plans are to add cameras to video the show rings. This “live action” can then be viewed wherever there is internet access. Alpaca breeders, family and farm staff who are unable to attend the show will now share the excitement of the event! Alpaca shows could be archived for viewing at a later date – the possibilities are endless.

The concept of “alpaca shows going hi-tech” was a brainstorm of Richard Maurer. While on a fishing trip with Bill Pearce the fishing got a little slow. Conversation led to alpacas, alpaca shows and the need to advance to a more sophisticated, technical system of organizing the events - Show Solutions, LLC came to exist. Rocco Carnaval, a computer programmer was hired to develop the software. Richard and Bill are instrumental in setting up and operating the system at the shows; while Tammy Maurer and Charlene Pearce provide technical support with ad design and implementation.

Show Solutions, LLC has provided service to alpaca shows free of charge. Funding of the service has been provided primarily by the Charter Members, Richard Maurer and Bill Pearce. Starting in 2007 there will be a cost to show committees for the service of having the Show Solutions system in place at alpaca events. Show Solutions’ primary purpose is to provide a service that enhances the quality and efficiency of event.